What kind of snail drum do I have & what is its value?
 

I recently acquired this snail drum. The serial number is 506984
I'd like to find out its value and sell it. Can anyone tell me what it's worth?

http://inlinethumb17.webshots.com/16...600x600Q85.jpg

http://inlinethumb23.webshots.com/44...600x600Q85.jpg

http://inlinethumb08.webshots.com/44...600x600Q85.jpg

http://inlinethumb23.webshots.com/43...600x600Q85.jpg

http://inlinethumb62.webshots.com/44...600x600Q85.jpg

Bill -

FGS Firearms (a reputable dealer) has a Type II drum magazine (like yours) in very good condition for $1,750.00.

However, that would be considered the "retail" price that a dealer is going to get.

I think collectors would like to find one for about $1,200 to $1,500. There are a lot of factors to consider, including but not limited to condition, and how much someone is actually willing to spend, etc.

But at least this hopefully gives you some idea of its value.

Mauser720 - Ron

Buyers of snail drums should be VERY cautious. I have found several that have been bent and will not actually fit into a Luger pistol. Some that will not accept the full compliment of cartridges and some that jam up and will not feed.
So..if you are planning to shoot the drum it is best to ask some pertinant questions of the seller before shelling out over a thousand bucks for one.
If you just want it to look pretty..buy a Tanaka.

One that fits, loads & fires correctly is worth a premium.

Jerry Burney

I'm wondering why their is not a B over a N on this drum. Bing made most of these and I have always seen the BN on the one's I have handled.

Gebruder Bing was the only maker of the second type Trommelmagazin as shown. It should be marked "B" over "N". There are a few long detailed threads on this forum regarding the TM08's.

Bill;
I noticed that you have this drum for sale over on gunboards. I would not buy it without the B/N.

Hi,

Mine, 698986 (nice number) has the B/N on both the front AND the back lid.
It's fully functional, tested in a 1917 LP08 with 20 rounds of ammunition (the best I did without loading tool).

Hi Vlim how did you manage to get 20 rds in with out a tool. I have a couple of these could never gey more than 14 rds in . Must be those strong dutch fingers.

Regards Richie

It's from all those leaky dikes... :D

http://jasonkolb.typepad.com/photos/..._dutch_boy.jpg

Hehehe,

Nah, I just cheated and used a screwdriver against the cartridge rim to force them down :)